14 great dog owner gifts

So, someone you know has a new puppy or dog, so now what? Most experienced dog owners know dogs need a lot of stuff, so it’s easy to find excellent dog owner gifts.

Because there are many items a first-time owner will not think of until they need it, we’ve put together a great list of perfect dog owner gifts.

Our list includes items that every dog owner can use. Find one that is most agreeable with your wallet.

The basics

Popper scooper: Every dog owner appreciates a good pooper scooper! They sure come in handy for the dreaded yard detail!

Disposable poopie bags: Responsible dog owners don’t leave home without them!

Record book: A convenient place to record and contain veterinarian visits, shot records, licenses, weight records, and other medical information and documentation.

Breed book: There are books on almost every breed imaginable, even the All-American mutt.

First-aid

First-aid book for dogs: A quick reference when your puppy or dog has an injury or health issue.

Large airtight plastic box: Use this for your doggie first-aid kit. Attach a laminated card on the inside lid with the phone numbers for your veterinarian, your local emergency veterinarian, and poison control.

Dog first-aid kit: Sooner or later, every dog owner needs one. Throw in: a pair of tweezers, scissors, rectal thermometer, a bottle of Pepto Bismol, buffered baby aspirin, Benadryl, space blanket, chemical self-activating hot and cold packs, gauze rolls -2″ and 3″, absorbent gauze pads – 2″, 4″ and 5 ” squares, Kwik Stop or cornstarch, eyewash, splinter remover, lubricant-Vaseline or non-spermicidal KY Jelly, rubber gloves, stethoscope, activated charcoal tablets, flashlight, jackknife, cotton balls, magnifying glass, powdered Gatorade packet, a bottle of Karo syrup, Syrup of Ipecac, hemostats or long-nose pliers, cotton-tip swabs, antibiotic ointment, vet wrap, peroxide, alcohol towelettes, baby wipes and a pair of old stockings…to make a muzzle if need be.

Toolbox: Store grooming supplies such as scissors, nail clippers, combs, brushes, shampoo in one handy place.

Grooming and more

Grooming supplies: Comb, brush, shampoo, towels, clippers, and a pair of scissors.

Puppy pen or playpen: It won’t take a novice owner long before they realize it is not a good idea to give the puppy the run of the house when you cannot supervise. Puppy pens or puppy corrals are a great way to keep them safe. A thrift shop is a terrific place to pick up a used playpen if you have a small puppy.

Gift certificates: Every dog owner appreciates gift certificates! Gift certificates are available for almost everything. Consider giving one for obedience training, boarding, grooming, and even treats/food.

Car restraints: For safety, restrain both the dog and owner. There are travel crates, seatbelts, and other restraints such as barriers, available specifically for that purpose.

Water toys: Child’s swimming pool, children’s water mister, or lawn sprinkler are fun. Many dogs love to cool down with water after a hard workout. Why not provide them with their little water park?

IOU: If you don’t have money for any of the above, give a few “coupons” to be used “as needed.” You can offer to provide dog sitting or dog walking. The new owner will appreciate the gift, and it doesn’t cost a dime. It’s also an excellent way for you to bond with the new pet.

Bottom line: Guarantee any one of these dog owner gifts will be a huge hit and much appreciated!

Karen A. Soukiasian is the owner of Good Dog! — Dog Training in St. Augustine, Florida. You can follow Karen on Facebook.

Ready for a second dog? Essential guide to multi-pet success